Club tries out new Firebug

Sailing away . . . Carl Graham (left) and Meg Clarkson (both 11) sail out on to the lake on one of the Firebug yachts. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Gore Boat and Water Ski Club members tried something a bit different at a Christmas barbecue held at Eden Pryde’s dam just north of Gore last week.
Club secretary Peter Salmond recently bought seven Firebug yachts for the club from the Otago Yacht Club.
The barbecue on December 8 was an opportunity for young sailors to give sailing a go.
“Some kids got along all right, some others not so much but getting these boats is a way to get young people into sailing right on our back doorstep,” Mr Salmond said.
The barbecue was held in perfect weather with just enough breeze to be a good introduction for those wanting a go.
Seventy members attended, Mr Salmond said.
“It was a really good turnout. Along with food and the new boats we also had a jet ski for sea biscuiting as well,” he said.
He hoped the yachts would build interest in the club.
They could be made available for schools and organisations in the district.
“You have got to start somewhere. I was going to build some last year but I was not sure of the interest but now that we have the boats there seems to more interest.”